The cold winter weather and the elements that often accompany it can cause significant roofing problems.
There’s something incredibly picturesque about a blanket of freshly fallen snow on your roof and its borders lined with icicles. However, winter weather can result in significant roofing issues. Knowing what to look for and recognizing these problems can help immensely in prevention.
Continue reading below to find a comprehensive list of common winter roofing issues and a few pro tips for preventing them.
4 Common Winter Roofing Problems
- Condensation
One of the most common roofing issues during winter is condensation. This is typically caused by inadequate roofing ventilation and often goes unrecognized by homeowners. When warm interior airs meet the cold underside of a roof exposed to freezing temperatures, condensation is often the result. Unfortunately, this can lead to musty smells, mold, and mildew growth.
How to Prevent Condensation — The best, most effective way to prevent condensation is to ensure your roof is properly vented. Ventilation allows air to flow and reduces the amount of warm air that comes in contact with your cold roof.
- Flashing Leaks
The aluminum pieces surrounding your vents, pipes, chimneys, and roof edges are roof flashing. It is designed to keep moisture out by bridging the gaps between various roofing materials and covering exposed subsurfaces. Roof flashing becomes vulnerable in high winds and cold temperatures when ice can form.
Preventing Flashing Leaks — By conducting regular roof inspections throughout the year and making repairs whenever necessary, you can avoid flashing leaks when the winter elements arrive.
- Icicles
Icicles form as melted snow runs down your roof and drips from your gutter system. Winter temperatures fluctuate just enough to cause melting and freezing, resulting in icicles hanging from your gutters and roofline. If the issue is not addressed, icicles will continue to lengthen and become more and more of a safety hazard.
How to Prevent Icicles — Preventing icicles is relatively easy. Keep your gutters clear of clog-causing debris, such as leaves, twigs, and pine needles. Remove snow and ice from your roofs’ edges. And implement proper ventilation and insulating practices.
- Ice Dams
Ice dams form because of temperature variations in your roof. As the top portions of your roof warm up, they melt snow that runs down to the lower parts of the roof that remain freezing. Ice dams will form as this water freezes where the roof and gutter system meet.
Preventing Ice Dams — Proper roof ventilation and increased insulation can help prevent ice dams. Learn more about that here.
Roofing Problems? Contact the Pros at We Do Roofing SLC Today!
Winter can bring many roofing problems, but the roof experts at We Do Roofing SLC are here to help! Whether your roof needs some TLC, your gutters need repair, or the siding on your home is in rough shape, our skilled team offers various gutter and roofing services to fit your needs. With over 20 years of experience, we are Salt Lake City’s trusted and respected roofers. Contact us to get your quote today.
